Practical Insights June 2017

“I believe in the equality of man; and I believe that religious duties consist in doing justice, loving mercy, and endeavoring to make our fellow-creatures happy.” Thomas Paine, Age of Reason

Story: I stand for human rights

What are your values – what do you stand for? In these times when totalitarianism is on the rise it is important to know what we support as well as what we are resisting.

I stand for human rights. This is not a partisan issue. I was recently appointed to the Kitsap County Council for Human Rights by a Republican county commisioner. One reason I joined is that deportations and drone strikes increased under Democratic President Obama, and he turned a blind eye to the use of paramilitary forces to attack water protectors at Standing Rock. Both parties are responsible for the current state of human rights in America, and partisan conflict exacerbates this.

I live a few miles from a memorial honoring the Japanese-Americans who were taken away from their homes and businesses on Bainbridge Island and shipped to concentration camps in the Washington desert. Muslim-Americans today fear they are facing a similar future. Hate crimes directed at Muslim-Americans and their defenders are on the rise. Already one member of the magical community, Taliesin Myrddin Namki-Meche, was killed while defending a Muslim-American girl against an attacker. Racist violence provides the foundational layer for totalitarianism and we are in grave danger politically and personally.

The human rights council I just joined holds events to educate people about issues. We organize an annual conference highlighting the most current issues. A few years ago we talked about food deserts and the fact that one-fifth of our children are hungry. Last month we sponsored a forum on the immigrant experience.

I encourage everyone to educate ourselves about human rights and affirm our commitment to uphold them. The UN Declaration of Universal Human Rights begins: “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights.” You can read it here.

Book in progress update
The working title for the book in progress is Soul and Cosmos. To explain the soul’s journey I’m bringing back the Ladies from The Woman Magician: Lady Tradition, Lady History, Lady Science, Lady Culture, Lady Philosophy, Lady Theology, and Lady Magic. It’s exciting to be working with them again!

June is Pride Month!
Juneteenth is Monday June 19.

New Release: The Witch’s Book of Shadows.

This is the definitive guide to the Witch’s most important tool: the record of knowledge. Mankey’s readable text covers history as well as how to make your own book. Guest writers add bits of information along the way. Even if you aren’t a Witch it’s a fascinating look at how Witches pass on knowledge.
Get it here.

Last word

The Library of Congress is the world’s largest library and the oldest institution in the country. It’s a magnificent building to visit and a must-see on any Washington trip.